Bangalore: Hundreds took part in a bike rally that symbolized fight against child labour in an event “Ride for Rights” organized by CRY – Child Rights and You and GoMad Festivals in the city today. The rally aimed to raise awareness on the issue of child labour and the need for collective action to ensure that every child goes to school and not work.

It is shocking to note that, in Karnataka, total number of working children under 18 years is 1.7 million out of which a staggering 80 per cent, that is about 1.35 million do not attend school.

The event was a platform to make people realise the impact on a child when he/she is engaged in labour and the urgency to address the issue.

Speaking at the event Suma Ravi, Regional Director, South, CRY, said, “When children are allowed to work, it deprives them not just their basic right to education, but their entire childhood. Only when a child goes to school and finished education, can he/she break the cycle of poverty and aim for a secure future. Along with a complete policy ban on child labour, it is equally important to change attitudes and behaviour of the community. The event is a great platform to bring people together and have a good time, and at the same time know about what they can do to address this issue. It encouraged people to take notice of how children all around us are working, deprived of their basic rights and under no circumstance should we accept that as a norm”

“It is heart-warming to see the enthusiasm amongst people to come together and take a stand against child labour. The passion among communities, organizations and volunteers to work for bringing about a change, is sure to inspire millions of people in India to do their bit for upholding our children’s rights”, she added.

The bike rally started from Freedom Park and passed through Kalidasa Marg, Palace Road, RC College, Seshadri Road and back to Freedom Park. The bike ride was followed by Live Music Show, Flea Market and Food Trucks with Bangalore’s finest musicians like Peepal Tree, Surajmani and the Tatva Trip, Zehen and Shubham Roy Collective performing.

Talking about the event, Sanjit George, Festival Director, GoMad Festivals said, “The biking community and the music community are so passionate in their commitment to change the world. Music has the power to break all boundaries and bring people together. We as GoMAD Festival believe that this event will impact and get the community to take a stand against Child Labour, create awareness and give children what they deserve … education! Nothing can be more special than associating with CRY & supporting this meaningful cause. We believe this will help change a lot of Children’s lives.”

The event was organized by CRY and GoMad Festivals in association with Wicked rides, Radio Mirchi, Corp Attire, Aster CMI Hospital, Bonjour events and Freedom Park.